The CLOUT Program aspires to creative leadership in preparing women and men, whose employment has been affected by social and economic forces, to find meaningful work, economic independence, and informed, responsible participation in a rapidly changing technological society. This is achieved through degree and certificate programs in office technology and personal computer applications with the help and support of civic, community, and corporate partners.

CLOUT's core values are consistent with that of the School of Computer Science and Information Systems:

• excellent teaching that is informed by scholarship, professional practice and community service;

• the integration of theory and practice in the teaching and scholarly activity;

• creative programs and partnerships with the local community; and

• attentiveness to professional and social responsibility.

The CLOUT Program benefits from a diverse population, bringing individuals with different backgrounds and experiences together. Technology is incorporated into all aspects of the program in recognition of it as a tool for human empowerment.

The specific goals of the CLOUT program are:

• to provide comprehensive employment-directed education to individuals who lack work experience and skills;

• to educate individuals in the "soft" skills necessary to maintain employment;

• to prepare individuals for work through hands-on training, job shadowing activities, and internship; and

• to help individuals obtain employment at the end of their period of study, which ultimately helps them to become self-sufficient.